The Siddins duo were in line for a third consecutive Classic win last year when they had an on off-road excursion on the Weldborough Pass TS12 stage after engaging in a tense battle with the Michael Bray Holden Torana.

The Datsun's original torquey L28 3.2litre six cylinder engine was spared however there was damage to the rear and the car was stripped back to a bare shell in the lengthy rebuilding process.

"We've been pushing it really hard to get it ready for this year," Gina Siddins said.

"The shakedown went well and can't wait to get back to Tassie and fly the flag for our sponsors and fans."

Gina Siddins is her husband's biggest fan, claiming the experienced competitor as her favourite all-time driver.

"Jon is an amazing driver and I get to see that first hand in the passenger's seat watching his amazing left foot braking and his skill behind the wheel.

"Guys out at Morgan Park will tell you the same thing that he is such a talented driver along with the way he is so precise about the set-up of the car."

The team has generated a large international following through its Facebook page, Team24oz, and a YouTube channel which is populated by in-car video clips updated during the event.

While the 2018 running of Targa Tas was predominantly dry there is a chance of variable conditions returning which will further heighten the action in an already entertaining Classic GT category.

More than 265 cars will set off over 2000km and 33 competitive stages for the 28th running of Targa Tasmania.

Fans can get up close to all the cars at the three official TargaFests. In Launceston the cars will be on display at the Silverdome Expo on Sunday April 28 and Wednesday May 1, from 6pm to 9pm, and in Hobart, you can see the cars at MAC2 on Friday May 3 from 6pm to 9pm.